introduction
This easy copycat of Panda Express Orange Chicken uses simple steps and common ingredients. It makes crispy, sweet, and tangy chicken you can eat at home. For tips on getting chicken extra crispy, see this guide on air fryer chicken size and crisping tips.
why make this recipe
You can make a tasty orange chicken at home fast. It costs less than takeout and you control the flavors. Kids and adults like the sweet sauce and crunchy chicken.
how to make Panda Express Orange Chicken
Follow simple steps and cook in one pan. You can use a small deep pan or a wok. For more Asian chicken ideas, try a recipe like Asian chicken with mushrooms to vary your meals.
Ingredients :
- boneless chicken thighs
- cornstarch
- salt
- pepper
- oil for frying
- orange juice
- soy sauce
- sugar
- garlic
- ginger
- sesame seeds
- rice
Directions :
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in cornstarch and shake off the excess.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy.
- In a separate bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the sauce.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the sauce to the pan and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve the chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds.

how to serve Panda Express Orange Chicken
Serve the orange chicken over hot white rice or fried rice. Add steamed broccoli or a side salad. For more serving ideas like sticky glazed wings, see teriyaki chicken wings serving ideas.
how to store Panda Express Orange Chicken
Cool the chicken to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to keep the sauce and crispiness.
tips to make Panda Express Orange Chicken
- Cut chicken into even pieces for even cooking.
- Dry the chicken well before dredging to get crisp coating.
- Fry in batches so oil temperature stays hot.
- Taste the sauce and adjust sugar or soy sauce for your preference.
- Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the chicken.
variation (if any)
- Use chicken breast if you prefer white meat.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or chili sauce for heat.
- Make a thicker sauce by mixing a little cornstarch with water and stirring into the sauce while it simmers.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes. Coat the chicken and bake at 425°F (220°C) until crispy, about 20 minutes, turning once.
Q: Can I use bottled orange juice?
A: Yes. Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled orange juice works fine.
Q: Is cornstarch necessary?
A: Cornstarch gives a light, crispy coating. You can use flour, but texture will change.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and store in the fridge for 2 days. Reheat before adding to the chicken.
Conclusion
If you want the original Panda Express experience or menu details, visit the Panda Express official menu.
Print
Panda Express Orange Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
This easy copycat of Panda Express Orange Chicken features crispy, sweet, and tangy chicken that you can enjoy at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1 cup orange juice
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the chicken pieces in cornstarch and shake off the excess.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy.
- Combine orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a separate bowl to make the sauce.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the sauce to the pan and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve the chicken over cooked rice and garnish with sesame seeds.
Notes
For extra crispy chicken, dry the chicken well before dredging and fry in batches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Panda Express, Orange Chicken, Asian cuisine, crispy chicken, homemade